By Michelle Ducut
The Camp John Hay Golf Club (CJHGC) has expressed its commitment to supporting the smooth transition of the leased property’s management to the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), while ensuring the protection of its shareholders’ rights.
CJHGC General Manager Judson Austaquio, in a press conference on Thursday, stated that the Golf Club respects the Supreme Court’s decision, which upholds a 2015 arbitral tribunal ruling directing Camp John Hay Development Corporation (CJHDevCo) to return the leased property to the BCDA.
“Camp John Hay Golf Club Inc. respects and supports the recent Supreme Court decision, especially in so far as it recognizes the independent and vested rights of other stakeholders,” Austaquio said.
The Golf Club clarified that as a separate entity, it is not bound by the arbitration involving CJHDevCo. Austaquio emphasized that the Golf Club has a direct relationship with BCDA and holds SEC-registered membership certificates valid until 2047.
Legal counsel Carlos Viktor Poblador assured members of ongoing efforts to safeguard shareholder rights, including a pending petition for injunction and damages at Baguio City’s Regional Trial Court Branch 79.
Austaquio affirmed that the Golf Club would continue its operations uninterrupted during the transition, preserving the jobs of 188 employees and 156 accredited caddies.
The Golf Club, which began operations in 1999, remains a significant stakeholder in Camp John Hay’s development. It currently offers shares at PHP720,000 each, with 1,500 shares still available.
CJHGC commended BCDA for ensuring business continuity and expressed its readiness to cooperate while maintaining its status as a premier golfing destination.